Defamation in a permanent form is called “libel”, and verbal defamation is called “slander”.

What is defamatory?

Statements which tend to make the reader, viewer or listener think less of a person or business by exposing them to hatred, contempt or ridicule, or disparaging them in their business, trade or profession are potentially defamatory.

Allegations of dishonesty, immorality, incompetence or criminal activity are all potentially defamatory.

For example:

A newspaper accuses a footballer of bribing officials to win a match.

A competitor sends an email to customers accusing a business of producing shoddy products.

A Twitter user accuses a celebrity of committing a crime.

How we can help

We can help clients to prevent publication of untrue statements or, in some cases, to “control” a story.

If publication has already occurred, we can help to prevent the allegations being repeated and correct the damage caused.

This can include securing:

agreement/injunctions preventing republication of allegations;

removal of the allegations from the internet;

prominent apologies;

damages;

legal costs.

Get in touch

If you are concerned about false or harmful allegations made about you or your business, please give us a call on 0345 872 6666 or use the contact form on the right of this page.